Goals Is Helping Canadians Better Understand The Dangers Lasers Pose To Aircraft

The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors), on behalf of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport, has launched the Government of Canada's safety awareness campaign for lasers. The national campaign will help Canadians better understand why pointing a laser at aircraft is not a bright idea.

The first phase of the campaign, unveiled today in collaboration with the Vancouver International Airport, the RCMP, and NAV CANADA, provides the public with an easy-to-follow infographic, which clarifies the dangers and consequences of pointing lasers into airspace and how incidents can be reported. This summer, the second phase of the campaign will include digital advertising, awareness videos and a direct mail campaign near three major airports.

Transport Canada has also launched tc.gc.ca/NotABrightIdea, which provides Canadians with the information they need to better understand the dangers of pointing a laser at an aircraft.

Transport Canada is working closely with police, other government departments, and the aviation industry to protect pilots, passengers, and people on the ground. If you see a laser pointed at an aircraft, report it to your local police.

According to Transport Canada, the number of lasers pointed at aircraft is rising in Canada. In 2014, there were 502 reported incidents – a 43% increase since 2012.

"It should be a no-brainer that pointing lasers at any part of an aircraft is dangerous," said Minister Wong. "This awareness campaign will help Canadians better understand the serious risks and consequences of pointing a laser at an airplane. By working closely with our partners, we can help to reduce the number of incidents at Canada's airports."

Aiming a laser at an aircraft is a federal offence in Canada as well as in the U.S. If convicted under the Aeronautics Act, an offender could face up to $100,000 in fines, 5 years in prison, or both. 

"Suspects who choose to target aircraft with lasers show a careless and wanton disregard for the safety of the pilots, passengers and the communities surrounding airports," said Sgt. C.V. (Cam) Kowalski of the RCMP. "Those caught will be prosecuted according to both federal and provincial acts and will be subject to substantial fines and jail time."

(Infographic provided by Transport Canada)

FMI: www.tc.gc.ca/eng/civilaviation/standards/aerodromeairnav-standards-ais-directed-bright-light-menu-1068.htm